Heart of the Rockies Regional Medical Center's community wellness program, Wellness U, has added a number of fitness classes to their summer schedule. New classes begin June 6.
A fitness class designed for people with Parkinson's disease will be held Mondays, June 6-July 18, from 12-1 p.m. This class is recommended for anyone diagnosed with Parkinson's who can move independently. The first class includes a balance assessment. All sessions are comprised of a warm-up, walking, and exercises that target the symptoms of Parkinson's disease. The class will be held at Yoga Olas, 1548 G Street, Salida. Cost is $30 for six classes. Contact Jon Fritz at (719) 530-2057 to register for this class.
Tai Chi: Moving for Better Balance, is an evidence-based program developed by the Centers for Disease Control and approved by the National Agency on Aging. This class helps to improve leg strength, stability, balance and cognitive function, and is proven to reduce fall risk in older adults and those with Parkinson's disease. Two classes will be offered this summer: one on Mondays and Wednesdays, June 6-Aug. 24, from 10-11 a.m.; and one on Tuesdays and Thursdays, June 7-Aug. 25, from 1:15-2:15 p.m. Both classes will be held at Yoga Olas, 1548 G Street, Salida.
The registration fee for the Monday/Wednesday class is $75. To enroll, contact Jon Fritz at (719) 530-2057. The Tuesday/Thursday class is designed for seniors 60+ and is free because it is funded by the Upper Arkansas Area Agency on Aging through the Older Americans Act. To register for the free class, call Janice Brunner at (719) 539-3341. Contributions to offset the program expenses are accepted.
Wellness U also offers a free community walking program on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, from 7:30-9 a.m. If you need help starting an exercise routine, want to track your blood pressure, or like the idea of group support, this is a good option. The program takes place on the Salida hospital campus, 1000 Rush Dr.
Wellness U also offers an affordable, indoor gym for all ages. Cardiovascular and strength-training equipment is available to members of the public during open-gym times with limited supervision. Space is limited to six participants per hour and the membership fee is $40 per month. The gym is located in the HRRMC Medical Clinics, 550 W. Hwy. 50, Salida.
If you have questions about any Wellness U classes or programs, contact Jon Fritz at (719) 530-2057. Info is also available at hrrmc.com.
